Summer Camps and Programs

Summer Camp for Every Kid

Does your child have a special need? Are they facing a challenging medical condition? Just not sure they’d fit in socially at summer camp? The enormous benefits of summer camp apply to everyone, so don’t let your worries take control and instead check out these wonderful camps that provide extra care and support for children with special circumstances. Then break out the camp gear and prepare your child for an unforgettable experience.

Camp-A-LittleThe ARC of San DiegoCuyamaca Outdoor School12561 Highway 79, Descanso619-685-1178 ext 255www.arc-sd.com/sslpage.aspx?pid=415Ages 5 and upA traditional residential summer camp for kids with developmental or intellectual disabilities. Activities cater to all abilities and include a talent show, campfire programs, nature appreciation and sports. Low staff to camper ratio and limited spaces available for 1:1 needs. Get on the mailing list today!

Camp Beyond the ScarsBurn InstituteOakridge Camp27224 California 78, Ramona858-541-2277www.burninstitute.org/camp-beyond-the-scarsAges 5-17Burn-injured children and teens are given the opportunity to enjoy traditional summer camp fun and build life-long bonds, while being given professional support for dealing with their unique physical and emotional challenges. This year’s camp will emphasize the power of a positive attitude with special workshops and support groups. Counselors include off-duty firefighters, medical staff and adult burn survivors. The Burn Institute provides this camp free of charge to burn-injured children.

Camp ConnectPromises 2 Kids858-427-1106promises2kids.org/camp-connect/Ages 5-18Camp Connect, a partnership between Promises2Kids and the County of San Diego, brings together brothers and sisters who live apart in foster care and provides safe environments for siblings to reunite and bond. Featuring organized four-day/three-night summer camp in the mountains of Julian, along with bi-monthly day camps. Foster youth living apart from one or more of their siblings is eligible to attend. Dates and locations kept confidential.

Camp I CanAutism Society of AmericaToby Wells YMCAPalomar Family YMCA858-715-0678www.autismsocietysandiego.org/Camp_I_CAN.htmlAges 6-17Camp I Can is a day camp for children with autism offering activities like swimming and games, combined with daily field trips to places such as Legoland and Belmont Park! Staff to camper ratio is low to ensure maximum safety and participation. Each camper is evaluated individually and given appropriate supervision. No camper is turned away based upon need and financial assistance is available.

Camp PaivikaAbility First600 Playground Dr., Cedarpines Park, CA909-338-1102 ext. 5001www.abilityfirst.org/programs/programs_camppaivika.aspxMultiple weeklong sessions all summer long in the San Bernardino National Forest. Camp Paivika “hums with morning-to-evening fun.” Serving kids with autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, epilepsy and other mild to severe physical and developmental disabilities. The camp’s long history, thorough program, and a well-equipped health center truly provides for every campers needs. Visit their website to read testimonials, watch camp videos, and read up on the many benefits of summer camp for special needs children.

Camp RamahOjai, CA 888-226-7726www.ramah.orgTikvah is designed for Jewish pre-teens and teens with learning, emotional and developmental disabilities. Tikvah campers are included in the general camper community but are given extra care through professional academic tutoring, pairing with a special buddy and greater counselor/camper ratio for individualized attention.

Camp Ohr Lanu June 5-June 9; Ages 4-14Camp Ramah’s special needs family camp is for Jewish children with special needs, their siblings and their caregivers. Staff includes special education teachers, behavior specialists and individual family counselors. Parents will appreciate the extra support from other understanding families. Accommodations include hotel-style rooms with private baths. Applications accepted on first come first serve basis.

Camp Wana Kura Day CampAmerican Diabetes Association9310 Fanita Parkway, Santee619-234-9897www.diabetes.org/in-my-community/diabetes-camp/camps/wana-kura.htmlAges 5-17A day camp chock full of interactive fun for kids with diabetes. Enrollment is limited and financial assistance is available. Teens are welcome to participate in special training and volunteer for service credit hours.

Junior Wheelchair Sports CampSan Diego Adaptive Sports Foundation619-336-9571www.adaptivesportsandrec.org/programsAges 4-18This camp is a unique opportunity for children with a physical disability, to attend a five-day adaptive sports camp. Sports offered include basketball, tennis, archery, rugby, soccer, physical conditioning and more. Goals include being in an inclusive community of peers, making new friends and learning how to lead an active life.

Surf CampSan Diego Chapter of Autism Society of America (SDASA)Aqua Pros Swim SchoolSouth Mission Beach & La Jollawww.aquapros.org/autismA.htmlThis annual surf camp for children with autism provides one-on-one surf instruction for each camper. Beach activities, sports and crafts are all part of the fun. You must be a member of SDASA to register.

Xcite Steps858-764-2956www.excitesteps.com/disability-services/disability-summer-programs/Various locationsWith many camp options to choose from you are sure to find a good fit for your child with cognitive disabilities, including social anxieties. Camp Steps is known for personalized attention and helping campers feel like they can be themselves. Their Natural Opportunity Model embraces individualized assessment, and planning for specific structure and goals. Home pick-up and drop-off is available.

Specialty workshops and classes

Not quite ready for the full camp experience? Ease you and your child into more independence by trying out these programs for special needs children offering workshop sessions and weekly classes.

Arms Wide OpenRubios Performing Arts237 E. Main St., El Cajon619-579-6179www.awosd.orgFree dance, music, fitness and theatre classes for children and adults with special needs. Students learn at their own pace in a positive atmosphere. Their hugely successful theater program features performances at the Lyceum Theatre!

Partners Therapeutic Horsemanship15689 Mountain Valley Place, Lakeside619-729-3853www.partnershorses.comOffering therapeutic riding lessons for all ages for people with a variety of special needs and disabilities. All lessons are geared towards the individual needs of the rider. Riding has the ability to improve posture, balance, mobility, self-esteem and cognitive skills. Special mounting ramp allows for wheelchair accessibility.

Positive Action Community Theatre (PACT)Program held at Dance North County535 Encinitas Blvd., Suite 101, Encinitas760-815-8512www.pacthouse.orgPACT teaches life skills to children, teens and adults with autism and other challenges through an inclusive performing arts program, including improvisational theatre. Each 8-week session ends with a performance. Year-round sessions offered.